Story by Gay Matambo
VICE President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga has urged Zimbabweans to promote peace, unity and selflessness, saying these values are essential for nation-building and community development.
He made the call during the centenary celebrations of St Killian’s Mission in Makoni District, Manicaland Province, on Saturday.
Addressing congregants, Vice President Chiwenga paid tribute to the priests, religious sisters and brothers, teachers, catechists, parents and parishioners whose collective efforts have sustained the mission over the past 100 years.
“On this land, through the sacrifices of priests, religious sisters and brothers, catechist teachers, parents and generations of parishioners, that seed has grown into a strong and vibrant mission that continues to transform lives. We honour those pioneers whose vision, courage and unwavering commitment laid the foundation upon which this mission continues to flourish.
“On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe and indeed on my own behalf, I extend my warmest congratulations to Bishop Paul Horan, the Diocese of Mutare, the clergy, the religious and the entire St Killian’s family on reaching this historic milestone,” he said.
The Vice President also called on communities to safeguard national stability by rejecting violence and embracing peaceful coexistence.
“We need peace in our nation. Let us therefore reject hatred, violence and division in our communities. Though we come from different backgrounds, let us remain united in one faith,” he said.
The celebrations brought together former students, church leaders and community members to commemorate the mission’s century of service.
St Killian High School alumna Mrs Monica Chinamasa credited the institution with shaping her academic and professional journey.
“St Killian’s transformed my life. It was through the teachings I received at this mission that I became one of the few black girls of my time to enrol at the University of Zimbabwe to study for an Honours Degree in Mathematics. I was the head girl at the high school, and Sister Concillia assisted me throughout my journey,” she said.
ZANU PF Treasurer General Cde Patrick Chinamasa, also an alumnus, praised the mission for instilling discipline and strong values.
“Walking through these gates today reminds us of the profound discipline and character that Father Vernon and the teachers instilled in us. We owe who we are today to the solid foundation we received right here at St Killian’s,” he said.
Congratulatory messages were also delivered by the Roman Catholic Pastoral Council, clergy, religious congregations and traditional leaders, who commended the mission for its contribution to education, community development and spiritual growth over the past century.
